Senior Industrial Automation Engineer

Placements24; Centurion; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work

Home office setup allowance

Career progression

Cutting-edge technologies exposure

Employer matching retirement plan

Performance bonus

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Industrial Automation Engineer for a fully remote position. The role focuses on designing, developing, and implementing advanced automation systems across diverse clients, including PLCs, HMIs, robotics, and SCADA.

You will collaborate with global teams to ensure high uptime and optimal performance. The ideal candidate has 6+ years in automation, expertise in PLC platforms (AB/Siemens/Mitsubishi), and strong remote collaboration skills, with a solid foundation in

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Mechanical/Computer Engineering or related field.
• 6+ years hands-on experience in industrial automation engineering.
• Proficiency in programming PLC platforms (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Mitsubishi).
• Experience with HMI/SCADA software (FactoryTalk View, Wonderware, Ignition).
• Knowledge of robot programming and integration (FANUC, KUKA, ABB).
• Strong understanding of industrial networks (Ethernet/IP, Profinet, Modbus TCP).
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills; strong remote teamwork abilities.
• Familiarity with safety standards for industrial automation (ISO 13849).

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, program, and commission automated control systems using PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA platforms.
• Integrate industrial robots, sensors, and vision into manufacturing processes.
• Create electrical schematics, control panel layouts, and system docs.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure project success.
• Troubleshoot automation hardware/software remotely or on-site (limited travel).
• Perform performance testing and validation to meet requirements.
• Stay updated on emerging automation technologies and best practices.
• Provide technical support and training to clients and internal teams.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources effectively.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of automation processes and standards.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI design

SCADA systems

Robotics integration

Industrial networks

Remote collaboration

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Computer Engineering

Tools

FactoryTalk View

Wonderware

Ignition

Allen-Bradley

Siemens

Mitsubishi

FANUC

KUKA

ABB

Ethernet/IP

Profinet

Modbus TCP

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneer in industrial automation solutions, is actively seeking a Senior Industrial Automation Engineer for a fully remote position. This role is integral to designing, developing, and implementing state-of-the-art automation systems that enhance operational efficiency and productivity for our diverse client base. The ideal candidate will possess extensive expertise in PLC programming, HMI design, robotics, and SCADA systems. As a remote-first organization, you will collaborate seamlessly with internal teams, clients, and vendors across different geographical locations, utilizing advanced digital collaboration tools. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative projects, drive technological advancements in automation, and work within a flexible, home-based environment. You will be responsible for overseeing the entire automation project lifecycle, from initial concept and design through to implementation, testing, and ongoing support. The role requires a strong understanding of manufacturing processes and the ability to translate complex operational requirements into robust, automated solutions. Your input will be crucial in shaping the future of industrial automation for our clients. You will also play a key role in troubleshooting and optimizing existing automation systems to ensure maximum uptime and performance.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, program, and commission automated control systems using PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA platforms.
• Specify and integrate industrial robots, sensors, and vision systems into automated manufacturing processes.
• Develop and maintain detailed electrical schematics, control panel layouts, and system documentation.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (mechanical engineering, software development, operations) to ensure successful project execution.
• Troubleshoot and resolve automation hardware and software issues, both remotely and, if necessary, on-site (limited travel).
• Conduct performance testing and validation of automation systems to ensure they meet specified requirements.
• Stay current with emerging automation technologies and industry best practices.
• Provide technical support and training to clients and internal stakeholders on automation systems.
• Manage automation project timelines, budgets, and resources effectively.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of automation processes and standards within the organization.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of hands-on experience in industrial automation engineering, with a proven track record in designing and implementing complex systems.
• Proficiency in programming various PLC platforms (e.g., Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Mitsubishi).
• Experience with HMI/SCADA software (e.g., FactoryTalk View, Wonderware, Ignition).
• Knowledge of industrial robot programming and integration (e.g., FANUC, KUKA, ABB).
• Strong understanding of industrial networks (e.g., Ethernet/IP, Profinet, Modbus TCP).
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills, with the ability to diagnose and resolve complex technical issues.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively in a remote team environment.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple projects, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced setting.
• Familiarity with safety standards for industrial automation (e.g., ISO 13849).

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive health coverage, and opportunities for advanced training and certifications in automation technologies.
• This role provides the ultimate flexibility of a fully remote work arrangement, supported by a generous home office setup allowance.
• You will be part of a forward-thinking company that invests in its employees' growth and development, offering clear career progression paths.
• Our client provides access to cutting-edge technologies and the chance to work on challenging, innovative projects that shape the future of manufacturing.
• We offer a retirement savings plan with employer matching and a performance bonus structure.
• Enjoy a supportive virtual team environment.